How to say no to alcohol this holiday season: five expert tips to keep you on the wagon or limit your drinking
- The coronavirus pandemic separates us from loved ones, increasing feelings of loneliness and making it difficult for some to avoid alcohol even if they want to
- Preparation is key to avoid temptation or being pressured into drinking at social events, and these tips should help
For people trying to stay sober, or limit their intake of alcohol, the holiday season can be a difficult time. Benjamin Miller, a clinical psychologist and president of Oakland, California-based Well Being Trust, says the Covid-19 pandemic may amplify feelings of loneliness that could negatively affect mental health and lead to substance abuse.
“I would worry about folks that are disconnected from their loved ones, their inability to really connect and just be around the folks that they appreciate,” Miller said.
If you want to avoid alcohol, the best thing you can do is prepare, according to Heidi Taugher, a licensed marriage and family therapist in private practice in California.
Planning everything, from the drink you’re going to bring to a party to what you’ll say when someone offers you alcohol and when you’re going to leave is critical, said Taugher, who is also a clinical supervisor at a residential treatment facility, where she treats patients for mental health and substance use.
“You need to stay committed to your plan that you made before your emotional brain came on the stage and is having fun and could likely hijack you,” she said.
